Court Rules against Moran’s Attempt to Cancel Special Election

Today, December 13, 2024, New York State Supreme Court Justice James Walsh ruled that the Saratoga County Board of Elections must proceed with the special election to fill the Commissioner of Public Works position in Saratoga Springs. The position became vacant last August when Jason Golub resigned. The position has been temporarily filled by the City Council appointment of Hank Kuczynski. Since the Democrats failed to file appropriate papers for their candidate, only one candidate will be on the ballot for the January 28, 2025, special election. That candidate will be Republican Chuck Marshall.

In an earlier post (see below), I documented the maneuvering by Accounts Commissioner Dillon Moran to block the special election and extend Kuczynski’s temporary appointment until the end of 2025. The earlier post has a more extended clip during which Moran excoriated those whom he falsely claimed had previously blocked his attempts for an election. Here is a brief clip from the November 6, 2024, City Council meeting that provides a flavor of Moran’s performance.

Press Release On Court Ruling From Saratoga Springs Republican Chair Mike Brandi

The Saratoga Springs Republican Committee celebrates the Supreme Court’s ruling today, which ensures the special election for Commissioner of Public Works will proceed as scheduled on January 28, 2025. The decision comes after SSGOP Chairman Mike Brandi and candidate Chuck Marshall filed suit to compel the Saratoga County Board of Elections to approve the ballot in accordance with election law. The lawsuit was prompted by opposition from the Democrat commissioner of the board who opposed the lawsuit.

Candidate Chuck Marshall: “This court ruling is a victory for all the voters of Saratoga Springs. It reaffirms that if everyone plays by the rules, there are legitimate outcomes.”

“This ruling protects the integrity of the electoral process” said Mike Brandi, SSGOP Chairman. “The people of Saratoga Springs deserve fair elections in accordance with the law free from partisan obstruction.”

Chris Obstarczyk, attorney for Brandi and Marshall, added: “The Supreme Court’s decision is a victory for democracy and a strong message that election law must be upheld.”

Decision is attached.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mike Brandi 

The Court’s Decision

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